Launch Your Story. Build Your Career

One of the UK’s leading platforms for emerging screenwriters, connecting exceptional new writing with BAFTA and the wider industry.

Whether you are writing a feature film, TV pilot or short film, this is an opportunity to have your work read, championed and introduced to the people who can help take it further.

Selected writers may receive professional feedback, showcases, industry introductions and tailored career support.

What is the 2026 competition looking for?

We are looking for original UK sitcoms, comedy-dramas and sketch shows with a distinctive comic voice, memorable characters and a clear engine for future episodes.

That could be a character-led sitcom, like Fleabag, Stath Lets Flats or Alma’s Not Normal.

A family or relationship comedy, like Amandaland, We Are Lady Parts or Alice & Steve.

A workplace or community comedy, like Small Profits or This Country.

Perhaps it is a high-concept, period or genre comedy, like Ghosts.

Or it could be a sketch show with recurring characters, satire or a completely original format.

These examples are not there for you to imitate. We want to discover your comic voice, your characters and your world.

Why Enter

Professional feedback, Industry exposure, Showcases and introductions, Career support

How It Works

Using the online application form . Submit the following requirements - a PDF containing a one-line synopsis, series treatment or overview, extract introduction and ten-page script extract.

Your work will be read and assessed anonymously by an experienced industry reader. Readers are not permitted to use AI to read, summarise, score or write their assessments.

The strongest entries progress - Selected entries move through our panel and jury stages. Approximately 10 to 12 projects will be presented to the jury.

Three finalists’ work will be rehearsed and performed by professional actors at a live showcase at BAFTA in London.

Bursaries

A limited number of free-entry bursaries are available. You need to fill in the online bursary application form before the deadline.

Further Information

Please see the Terms and Conditions for eligibility, deadlines and how to apply.